NEW ENGLAND — For weeks, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has continued to increase operations in many locations, including in Portland, Maine — where the New England Archivists (NEA) are currently planning the 2026 Spring Meeting from March 19-21. While Maine Governor Janet Mills has announced that ICE has halted enhanced activities in the state as of January 29, 2026, NEA is committed to ensuring that Spring Meeting attendees feel safe and supported. 

To that end, this year’s meeting will offer an entirely virtual option for those who are unable to attend for any reason. We also encourage all attendees and NEA members to prepare for immigration enforcement activity by reviewing “Know Your Rights” information compiled by the Maine chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), the Immigrant Legal Advocacy Project (ILAP), and the Refugee and Human Rights Clinic at the University of Maine School of Law. This information will be shared in-person at the meeting via placards posted throughout the venue. 

Inspired by the guidance provided by the American Library Association, we also suggest that attendees: 

• Make a digital copy of and plan to carry personal identification (REAL ID or passport) with you at all times,

• Share your itinerary with someone at home and check in regularly 

During the Spring Meeting, we will provide escorts for anyone who may feel unsafe at the hotel venue or around Portland. Escorts will be visibly marked during the Spring Meeting with their descriptors available only to meeting registrants. If you would like to request or offer to be an escort, email the Inclusion and Diversity Committee chair.

We understand that this is a tense time for many. But moments like this are exactly why NEA exists. From our mission to our core values, we’re here to: 

• Provide community and connection in uncertain times; 

• Create affirming spaces and foster conversations that explicitly center diversity and inclusion; 

• Leverage our collective voice to educate the general public about issues affecting archival work and connect with people in positions of power to advocate for positive change;

• Empower you with the resources you need to speak out against injustice at every level.

NEA’s Spring Meeting provides archival professionals three days of virtual and in-person workshops, sessions, special events, and roundtable discussions. Learn more about NEA’s 2026 Spring Meeting and register today.